A LIVE music venue in the centre of Chelmsford has made a desperate last-ditch appeal for help after it closed – just 15 months after opening.

Asylum, in Viaduct Road, unexpectedly shut up shop last week, citing financial difficulties as the reason.

The bar was opened by musical couple Eddie and Denise Wood in April 2013 in a bid to make live music more accessible to those in the town.

The couple have now appealed to the venue’s legion of fans for help saving it by asking punters for £20 in a membership scheme.

Currently an idea in progress would see members granted access to shows for a year and given a “committed” T-shirt.

A statement on the venue’s Facebook page said: “The truth of the matter is we need money. We have laid ourselves on the line and are literally out of money.

“If we get enough pledges, we would consider reopening, initially on Fridays and Saturdays, and see what develops from there.”

The post has received almost 600 comments and shares.

Last week Asylum announced it was closing due to severe financial difficulties.

Regular visitors to the venue, which hosted nightly events of all musical genres, left messages on the page bemoaning the closure of another Chelmsfordmusic spot, following Hooga at the beginning of 2013.

Gregg Speller said: “Another nail in the live music coffin, no venues left in the ‘city’ of Chelmsford. It’s an embarrassment!

Thanks for all your efforts, you will be missed!”

Derek Gooding added: “Damn shame Ed! Thank you for having the courage to open the club in the first place though, and provide a venue for such a great number of bands.

“I will miss the great atmosphere and friendly staff, and wish everyone the best for the future.”